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Sintra and Cascais are two enchanting destinations that offer an ideal day trip for independent travelers exploring the Lisbon area. In this guide, we'll take you through the highlights, including Sintra's UNESCO World Heritage Site, the westernmost point of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca, the breathtaking Ursa and Guincho Beaches, and the charming town of Cascais.
Where are Sintra and Cascais?
Situated just 30km northwest of Lisbon, Sintra beckons with extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semitropical garden, and scenic views. Cascais, located approximately 34km west of Lisbon, boasts a history as a former fishing village turned tourist destination with beautiful beaches, a marina, and historic buildings.
What to See
In a single day, you can explore the following attractions:
Sintra:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.
Extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semitropical garden, and scenic views.
Read about the Top 6 Attractions in Sintra for more details.
Cabo da Roca:
A 150-meter cliff, the westernmost point in Portugal and continental Europe.
Offers stunning ocean views, with trails along the cliff top for exploration.
The lighthouse, dating back to 1772, adds to the scenic landscape.
Praia da Ursa:
A white sand beach just before Cabo da Roca.
Accessible through a challenging, yet rewarding, 20-minute steep walk.
Offers breathtaking views during the cliff descent and on the beach.
Praia do Guincho:
Located 9km northwest of Cascais.
A stunning beach known for its windsurfing and surfing conditions.
The 9km shoreline path from Cascais to Guincho is popular for cycling.
Cascais:
A former fishing village turned tourist destination.
Features several beaches, a marina, historic buildings, and a picturesque shoreline connecting Cascais to Praia do Guincho.
How to Get to Sintra, Cascais, and Beyond
By Public Transport:
Take the commuter train from Lisbon’s Rossio station to Sintra.
From Sintra, take bus #403 to Cascais, stopping at Cabo da Roca. Read full transport guide here.
Return to Lisbon by train from Cascais to Cais do Sodré station.
By Car:
Follow the N247 road from Sintra to Cabo da Roca, Praia do Guincho, and Cascais.
Staying in Sintra and Cascais
For those wanting to extend their stay, there are lodging options in both Sintra and Cascais check out our complete guides on each castle and palace of Sintra on the travel blog page.
What to Eat in Sintra and Cascais
Indulge in local delicacies:
In Sintra, try queijadas, crisp pastry shells filled with fresh cheese, sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
Visit Fábrica das Verdadeiras Queijadas da Sapa (Volta Duche 12) for a taste of these pastries.
Casa Piriquita (Ruas das Padarias 1) tempts with travesseiro, a traditional pastry filled with almond-and-egg-yolk cream. See our page recommending all the best restaurants in Sintra (including vegan and vegetarian).
In Cascais and Guincho, explore seafood delights at renowned restaurants such as Fortaleza do Guincho, Mar do Inferno, and Polvo Vadio.
Plan your journey using the free tour planner here, and embark on a memorable day trip to Sintra and Cascais.